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Thursday, March 22, 2012

Summer Field Paleontologist needed

Job Title: Summer Field Paleontologist

Location: Standing Rock Indian Reservation ND/SD

Job Description: The Standing Rock Indian Reservation is one of the largest reservations in the United States and the only Tribe with a Paleontology Department. Under the direction of the Tribal Paleontologist - consultants, students and volunteers assist in fieldwork in the fossil-rich badlands of South Dakota. The Standing Rock Paleontology Department is searching for a Field Paleontologist to assist the Tribal Paleontologist during the 2012 Field Season (June to August) in the collection of and exploration for fossils.

The Field Paleontologist is responsible for assisting the Tribal Paleontologist in managing the field staff and ensuring that the field paleontology program operates efficiently. The incumbent will be expected to supervise several field assistants and/or volunteers of varying skill and knowledge levels, know and teach various field paleontology methods and techniques, and be able to keep good field notes and documentation of fossil localities. During times of inclement weather, work will be temporarily moved to the Paleontology Lab in Fort Yates, ND where the incumbent will assist in regular lab work including, fossil preparation and molding and casting.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Lead/supervise teams of two or more Field Assistants and/or volunteers in the prospecting for and excavation of fossils.

Will take an active role in fossil prospecting, collection and excavation.

Reports to the Field Paleontology Supervisor(s) on a daily basis.

Assists the Field Paleontology Supervisor(s) in managing the field crew and camp maintenance.

Responsible for helping with field camp maintenance including but not limited to mowing grass, organizing tools and equipment, cleaning vehicles and ensuring that the camp is kept tidy and in good working order.

Assist in fossil preparation, molding and casting.

Assist in fossil identification and cataloging.

Will help to train new Field Assistants and teach proper field methods and techniques to Field Assistants and volunteers.

Ensure compliance of Field Assistants and volunteers with departmental policies and regulations.

Qualifications:

Master’s degree in paleontology preferred; Bachelor’s degree in geology or related field with field work experience acceptable.

Must have knowledge of geological and paleontological concepts, methods and techniques.

Must have paleontology field work experience.

Must be able to lift heavy loads and work under adverse conditions typical for the badlands of South Dakota.

Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to provide own transportation to and from the field camp.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in paleontology (preferred) or Bachelor’s degree in geology or related field with paleontology field work experience. Must have knowledge of geological and paleontological concepts, methods and techniques. Must be able to lift heavy loads and work under adverse conditions typical for the badlands of South Dakota. Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to provide own transportation to and from the field camp. Salary commensurate with experience.